Former Orlando Pirates playmaker Patrick “Tito” Maswanganyi has penned an emotional farewell to the Soweto giants following his unexpected departure.
The 28-year-old midfielder left the Buccaneers during the current transfer window to join Al Khaldiya Sports Club in the Bahrain Premier League.
Pirates agreed to the transfer after Maswanganyi expressed a strong desire to test himself abroad. The Tembisa-born star joined the Sea Robbers from SuperSport United and quickly established himself as a central figure in their squad.
Known for his dazzling flair, sharp creativity, and goal-scoring ability, Tito rapidly grew into a massive fan favourite at Orlando Amstel Arena.
During his spell in Soweto, he made 120 appearances across all competitions, scoring 28 goals and providing 21 assists.
A day after the Buccaneers officially announced his departure, Maswanganyi took to social media to share a heartfelt farewell, expressing his gratitude to the club, management, teammates, and supporters for playing such a pivotal role in his career.
TITO MASWANGANYI BIDS FAREWELL TO PIRATES
“To Orlando Pirates Football Club, I would like to express my sincere appreciation to Orlando Pirates Football Club for the opportunity to represent this historic institution,” Maswanganyi said on his Instagram page on Tuesday.
“Wearing the black and white jersey has been a privilege and a responsibility that I have never taken for granted. My time at the club has provided me with invaluable experiences, important lessons, and memories that I will carry with me throughout my career. I am proud to have been part of the Orlando Pirates family.
“To my teammates, thank you for the camaraderie, support, and professionalism you showed me throughout our time together. We shared the demands of the game, the pressure of competition, the celebrations, and the difficult moments. Every experience contributed to my growth, both on and off the field. I am grateful for the friendships and memories we created.
“To the supporters, thank you for your unwavering support throughout my time at the club. The songs, the chants, the nicknames, the messages, and the energy you brought to every match will always be special to me. Your support gave me extra motivation to represent the badge with pride every time I stepped onto the field. Thank you for welcoming me and allowing me to feel that I belonged.”
MESSAGE TO THE CHAIRMAN DR IRVIN KHOZA
He added: “To the chairman [Irvin Khoza], thank you for the trust you placed in me and for giving me the opportunity to represent Orlando Pirates. Being entrusted with the responsibility of wearing these colours and representing the club is something I will always value. I am grateful for the role you have played in my development and career.
“To the technical team and everyone behind the scenes, thank you for your commitment, professionalism, and support throughout my time at the club. From the technical staff and medical team to the administrative and support staff, every department plays an important role in creating an environment where players can perform at their best. I sincerely appreciate the contribution each of you made to my time at Orlando Pirates.
“As I begin a new chapter in my career, I leave Orlando Pirates with immense respect and appreciation for the club, its people, and its supporters. I am grateful for the opportunity.”
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